Bioprospecting and Ethical Considerations in North East India

Bioprospecting, the exploration of biodiversity for commercially valuable genetic and biochemical resources, is a rapidly expanding field with immense potential. In North East India (NEI), known for its rich biodiversity and indigenous knowledge, bioprospecting holds both promise and peril. This research paper discusses the potential of bioprospecting in NEI, the role of indigenous knowledge, and the ethical considerations that arise, particularly focusing on the principles of prior informed consent (PIC), benefit-sharing, and intellectual property rights (IPR). It also explores the legal frame works and the challenges that must be addressed to ensure sustainable and equitable bioprospecting practices in this region.